Tre Cime Loop

Description

The Tre Cime route packs some of the finest riding in the eastern Dolomites into a demanding 106 km loop, starting and finishing in Auronzo di Cadore. The defining challenge comes early: the road climbs steadily towards the Tre Cime massif, with the landscape becoming increasingly alpine as the route gains altitude. You'll be able to rest a bit near Lago di Misurina, one of the most recognisable mountain lakes in the Dolomites, before continuing to the main challenge of the day – Tre Cime at 2,354 m above sea level. After the high point, the route descends back towards Misurina, before continuing towards Passo Tre Croci. From here, the road drops into the Cortina d'Ampezzo area, trading high-alpine terrain for a long, flowing descent through the valleys. In Cortina d’Ampezzo, the center of the Dolomites, it is worth choosing one of the local restaurants or cafés for a well-earned break before continuing the route. The second half is less about famous summit roads and more about rhythm: long stretches through the Cadore landscape, smaller settlements and wooded valleys gradually bring you back towards Auronzo. After the intensity of Tre Cime, this quieter section gives the legs a chance to settle into a steady tempo, although the overall elevation gain of roughly 2,170 metres makes this a serious day in the saddle. The Tre Cime route is best suited to experienced road cyclists looking for a full-day Dolomite adventure. The combination of a major alpine climb, high mountain scenery and a long valley return makes it much more than a simple out-and-back to the Tre Cime.

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